Things To Do Near Tuzigoot National Monument
Tuzigoot National Monument was part of the huge, thriving network of cultures that spread across the American Southwest more than 1,000 years ago. Whether you're climbing around the restored pueblo or checking out artifacts in the museum, the accomplishments of these ancient people are on display around every corner. The town of Cottonwood is a few minutes away, so you're never far from a beautiful campsite or an excellent meal.
Hiking Trails
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Pueblo Trail
The most popular trail in the Tuzigoot National Monument is the Pueblo Trail. It runs south from the visitor center and travels along the side of the excavated pueblo. Although most of the reinforced rooms are not open to exploration, you'll get a wonderful view of the stonework and the impressive height of the structure. The trail is paved; if you want to hike up to the Citadel room, expect a steep climb and a few sets of stairs.
Location
Visitor Center
Length
0.6 mile round-trip
Intensity
Easy to Moderate
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Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail
Head north from the visitor center on the Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail, which takes you over gently rolling terrain to an elevated viewing deck. From there, you can look over the Tavasci Marsh. This spring-fed oasis was essential for the people of the Tuzigoot Pueblo. The trail is paved and easily accessible if you're traveling with a wheelchair or stroller.
Location
Visitor Center
Length
0.8 mile round-trip
Intensity
Easy
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Tavasci Marsh Trails
If you're up for a longer hike, check out the Tavasci Marsh Trails. You'll find the start of the trail north of the visitor just off of the Tavasci Marsh Overlook Trail. The trail network travels down toward the Verde River; once you reach the loop section, you can head north toward the Tavasci Marsh or walk west along the river. Near the marsh, a large platform offers a nice view and a place to rest. These trails are dirt and gravel, and shade is extremely limited.
Location
Vistor Center
Length
3 miles round trip
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Tuzigoot Pueblo
The Tuzigoot Pueblo is the highlight of the Tuzigoot National Monument. You can see it for miles around, perched on top of a ridge above the Verde River. The pueblo was excavated in the mid-1930s, reclaiming the stone walls from overgrowth and erosion. Note the lack of doors on most of the rooms — to get in, residents climbed wooden ladders and entered the rooms through trap doors in the ceilings.
Location
Visitor Center
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Tavasci Marsh
The Tavasci Marsh is one of Arizona's largest wetlands; in fact, it's the largest one that's not part of the Colorado River ecosystem. Long ago, it sat in an oxbow of the Verde River. Home to hundreds of types of birds, the marsh is a popular spot for birdwatching.
Location
Tavasci Marsh Trails
Museums
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Tuzigoot Visitor Center and Museum
The museum inside the Tuzigoot National Monument visitor center is a must-visit destination. Here, you can see many of the artifacts that were unearthed during the excavation of the pueblo. These objects tell the story of the thriving culture of commerce and travel in ancient Tuzigoot — check out pottery from around the Southwest, seashells from far-off oceans, and feathers from birds that only exist in Mexico and South America. A series of informative plaques help you identify imported and locally made pieces, and helpful maps paint the picture of a sprawling, interconnected culture.
Location
Visitor Center
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Jim and Ellen's Rock Shop
If you're a rockhound, don't miss the fantastic collection at Jim and Ellen's Rock Shop. It's easy to spend hours browsing aisle after aisle of petrified wood, rare minerals, and colorful geodes. The shop also carries souvenirs, including art and pottery.
Location
1019 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
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Verde Valley Bicycle Company
You'll be ready to explore Arizona on two wheels after a trip to Verde Valley Bicycle Company. With a selection that includes bikes, backpacks, safety gear, and accessories, this friendly shop has something for riders of all levels.
Location
743 N Main St #3644, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
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Verde Valley Olive Oil Traders
Get ready for some gourmet RV meals with a visit to Verde Valley Olive Oil Traders. Specializing in high-end oils from around the world, this store is a must-visit for foodies and home chefs. Allow plenty of time to sample the oils and the vinegars.
Location
1002 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
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Pizzeria Bocce
Pizzeria Bocce serves delicious wood-fired pizza, but that's just the tip of the iceberg — the menu also includes charcuterie boards, Italian guacamole, panini sandwiches, and mouth-watering desserts. An in-house bar serves everything from craft cocktails to Italian wine.
Location
1060 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
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Tavern Grille
The Wild West design influence is strong at Tavern Grille, a charming restaurant packed with Chesterfield sofas and grand vintage chandeliers. The menu is filled with salads, burgers, and steak entrees, but you'll also find tacos and gourmet lavash bread.
Location
914 N Main St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
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3 Kings Kasbar
A tapas restaurant isn't what you'd expect to find on the Western-style streets of Cottonwood, but the 3 Kings Kasbar defies expectations. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features dishes such as empanadas, scallops, and olive tapenade.
Location
102 E Pima St, Cottonwood, AZ 86326